5 Best Accountants in London – Expert & Trusted Firms

Choosing the right accountant isn’t just another item on your business to-do list, it is one of the most important decisions for small businesses, contractors, freelancers and limited companies. A good accountant does far more than handling tax returns and year-end accounts. They keep your accounts organised, help you save money, prevent costly mistakes, and most importantly, offer advice you can actually use to run your business more effectively all year round.  

London’s business world moves fast. There are firms everywhere, promising everything from simple bookkeeping to detailed tax planning and business strategy. It’s no wonder it’s hard to know who you can really trust, especially when everyone claims they’re “the best.” 

That’s why we’ve done the research for you. Here are the five best accountants in London, each chosen for excellent client feedback, transparent pricing, reliable support, and true expertise. Whether you’re just launching or already growing fast, this list will point you to accountants who truly deliver.

We understand how challenging it can be to find an accountant in London you can truly rely on, so we focused on what really matters to business owners in London. Rather than being swayed by flashy marketing, we looked closely at what each firm actually provides.

Trust & Reputation

You want someone people genuinely recommend, don’t you? That’s why we paid special attention to what clients are saying online. Trustpilot ratings and the number of reviews told us a lot. Firms with consistent five-star scores and lots of positive feedback from real customers went straight to the top. That’s solid evidence they’re offering great service and keeping their clients satisfied over time.

Range of Accounting Services Offered

Each business has unique needs, so we considered what accountancy services each firm truly offers. Some stick to the essentials like bookkeeping and self-assessment, while others go further; providing IR35 guidance, payroll services, VAT returns, company formation, tax planning, and more. We rated firms higher if they covered a wide mix of valuable services.

Customer Support

You need more from an accountant than just paperwork filing. It’s important to have someone who answers your questions, explains things clearly, and genuinely helps when needed. We looked at how quickly each firm responds, whether they offer a dedicated accountant, and how clear their guidance is. Firms with fast responses and clear, honest support ranked highest.

Pricing & Transparency

Cost always matters as much as service quality. We reviewed how clear and upfront each firm is about their fees. Fixed-fee packages, honest pricing and no hidden costs were important factors. The easier it was to see what you’re paying for, the better the firm scored.

Industry Expertise 

Certain businesses require more than general advice. Contractors, startups, landlords, creatives, and medical professionals often need specialist guidance. We checked which firms really understand their niches and how deep their expertise runs. Firms with strong industry know-how stood out, giving more targeted advice and accurate tax solutions.

1. GoForma (Best for Small Businesses & Contractors)

GoForma has really made a name for itself in London by making accounting simple and approachable. GoForma’s team is full of ACCA and AAT-qualified accountants. They’re not your average, old-fashioned firm, they combine qualified accountants with modern tools and clear & upfront pricing packages. So if you’re a contractor, freelancer, or small business owner fed up with chasing your accountant or dealing with surprise charges, GoForma is the kind of partner you want on your side.

Trust & Reputation

GoForma receives excellent feedback on Trustpilot, where people talk about how quick the team is to respond and how they explain tricky tax stuff in a way that actually makes sense. Clients love that they get personalised service from accountants who don’t disappear once you join.

Strengths

• A highly responsive support team
• Clear tax planning for contractors, small businesses, and directors
• FreeAgent cloud accounting software included at no extra charge.
• Real human support from dedicated accountants
• Friendly explanations and ongoing guidance throughout the year
• Virtual business address and mail handling service for London based businesses

Ideal For

GoForma works especially well for:

• Solo contractors and freelancers who want stress-free tax help
• Newly formed limited companies
• Startups looking for a long-term accounting partner
• Small business owners who value strong communication and modern tools
• Anyone who wants proactive advice instead of once-a-year contact

When it comes to tax advice, they cover everything: IR35, self-assessment, corporation tax, capital allowances, dividends, VAT, and even crypto. Whatever you need as a modern business owner, they’ve got you covered.

Pros

• Clear and simple pricing
• Friendly, fast communication
• Dedicated accountant for every client
• Strong reviews and strong client satisfaction
• FreeAgent accounting software included
• Great for contractors, limited companies and startups
• Useful add-ons like virtual London business address
• Covers a wide range of tax needs, including IR35 and crypto

Potential Drawback

• Not suited for very large companies with heavy audit or complex corporate structures
• Focuses mainly on small businesses, contractors and early-stage firms 

If you have a large company with a complex setup or need advanced audit services, GoForma might not be the right choice. Their whole approach is designed for smaller businesses and contractor-led operations, not for big enterprises.

Why GoForma Ranks #1

GoForma takes the top spot thanks to its mix of affordability, quality, and personal service. The fixed-fee pricing, modern software, and helpful team create a strong all-round package. Their specialist support for contractors, freelancers and small businesses makes them stand out compared to traditional firms. They are reliable, responsive, and focused on giving clients real value.

2. Crunch Accounting – Best for Cost-Effective Online Accounting

Crunch is an online-first accounting service that combines easy-to-use software with a real team of accountants. It offers the speed and convenience of digital bookkeeping, plus real experts to support you whenever you need assistance. If you prefer to manage things yourself, opt for software-only access. Or, if you’d rather let professionals handle it, choose their done-for-you package and their accountants take care of your key filings. It’s a smart solution for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners who want modern tools without losing that personal, professional support.

Trust & Reputation

Crunch earns a strong 4.4 out of 5 on Trustpilot, with thousands of reviews from genuine clients. Users praise the service’s reliability and the easy-to-use platform. Loyal customers stick with Crunch because it offers the best of both worlds; a smart blend of software and real accountants available to help when challenges arise. 

Strengths

Crunch stands out for several reasons:

• A well-known online brand with years of experience
• A solid digital platform built for freelancers and small companies
• Fixed-fee plans that offer good value
• Unlimited support for day-to-day questions
• Coverage of key services: self-assessment, bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, and year-end accounts

Clients often comment on the platform’s simplicity and how simple it is to track expenses, send invoices, and manage deadlines. They appreciate being able to do most tasks online, but also value having someone to talk to if they run into issues. It’s this combination of technology that truly works, plus real human support, that keeps users coming back to Crunch.

Ideal For

Crunch is a strong choice for:

• Freelancers
• Small businesses
• Contractors
• Clients who prefer a mostly online experience and want access to software for daily tasks

If you prefer managing things online and want a seamless, modern experience, Crunch does a great job.

Potential Issues

Although many clients are happy, there are a couple of things to be aware of, though. 

• Some people on forums mention that support is often provided by junior account managers rather than experienced senior accountants.
• If your tax needs are very specialised such as complex investments, unique business structures, or you require advanced tax planning, Crunch probably isn’t the best fit.

3. TaxAssist Accountants – Best for Local Advice

TaxAssist Accountants is one of the largest accountancy networks in the UK, with many branches across London. They focus on small businesses, landlords, and self-employed individuals, especially those who prefer in-person discussions about their finances. With local offices and accountants willing to meet face-to-face, TaxAssist is a great option if you want to talk things through in person rather than relying entirely on online services.

Trust & Reputation

Trust is important, and TaxAssist’s reputation proves it. Take a look at their Trustpilot ratings where thousands of people have shared positive experiences, highlighting the team’s professionalism, friendly approach, and clear guidance. Many clients comment on how approachable the accountants are. Sometimes, you just want to meet in person and sort things out, and TaxAssist makes that easy.

Strengths

TaxAssist stands out because of:

• A large network of local offices across London
• Strong reputation backed by thousands of reviews
• Personal, face-to-face support combined with digital tools
• Clear service packages for small businesses and landlords
• Friendly, easy-to-understand advice
• Good option for clients who prefer a more traditional accountant-client relationship

Their combination of in-person meetings and practical tax help attracts many small business owners who find comfort in having a local expert they can speak with directly.

Ideal For

TaxAssist is a great fit for:

• Sole traders
• Landlords
• Small businesses
• People who prefer a local accountant they can meet in person
• Those who want a simple but reliable tax and accounting service

Potential Issues

While TaxAssist works very well for many small businesses, a few points may matter to some clients:

• Because each office is independently run, the level of service can vary slightly between branches.
• Prices may differ across locations, which means two clients may not pay the same for similar services..

4. Accounts & Legal – Best for Growing Businesses

Accounts & Legal isn’t your standard London accountancy firm. They partner with ambitious businesses, start-ups, and any company that requires more than basic bookkeeping. You get a combination of accounting, tax, HR, and legal support all in one place, so you don’t have to coordinate multiple advisors.

They focus on more than just meeting compliance requirements. The team looks at business performance, cash flow, and strategy; the areas that actually drive growth. Founders who want practical, hands-on advice as they scale up really appreciate that approach.

If you’re looking for a partner who offers genuine financial insight instead of just managing your year-end, Accounts & Legal is a strong choice.

Trust & Reputation

They hold a strong and consistent reputation on Trustpilot. Clients frequently mention how helpful the staff are, how the reports are easy to understand, and their hands-on support. People appreciate that they don’t just process tax returns but they actually help you manage your cash flow and understand your business performance.

Strengths

Accounts & Legal stands out for:

• A strong focus on business growth and strategy
• Useful management accounts and forecasting for scale-ups
• A mix of accounting, HR and legal support in one place
• Fixed-fee plans designed for different business sizes
• Cloud accounting tools with real-time finance insights
• A friendly, practical team praised for good communication

Their ability to help growing companies with both day-to-day accounting and strategic planning gives them a unique position among London firms.

Ideal For

Accounts & Legal works best for:

• Growing businesses
• Scale-ups
• Startups moving into their next stage
• Companies that want more financial insight and forward planning
• Business owners who want reporting tools and clearer direction

If you want consistent financial reports and someone to guide you along the way, this accounting firm is a strong fit.

Potential Issues

Although the firm offers strong value for growth-focused companies, there are some possible drawbacks:

• Their fees are higher than most small-business accountants, mainly since you’re getting more hands-on advice.
• Honestly, if you’re a solo freelancer or a very small business, you probably won’t need all these extra features.
• Some clients mention their premium packages are best suited for businesses with steady revenue, not for the smallest startups just getting off the ground.

5. AudTax Accountants – Best for Responsive, Specialist Tax Advice

Audtax responds quickly and genuinely prioritises clients. They work with all types of businesses, but they really stand out when things get technical, particularly with specialist tax issues and audit support. They manage everything from bookkeeping and company accounts to tax advice and business planning.

What truly distinguishes them is their expertise in complex tax matters and regulated processes. Clients who require more technical or compliance-focused accounting rely on them to do the job correctly.

Audtax goes beyond the basics. They combine straightforward accounting with specialised knowledge, which is a major advantage for companies with complex structures or strict reporting demands.

Trust & Reputation

AudTax doesn’t just make promises, they deliver, earning a 4.9 out of 5 TrustScore on Trustpilot from more than 100 clients. Clients consistently mention the team’s quick responses. They actually answer questions and provide clear explanations to make complex tax issues easier to understand. Clients also highlight the effective tax planning and the personal support they receive during audits or regulatory checks.

Strengths

AudTax is known for:

• Fast communication—clients consistently highlight how quickly the team responds.
• They break down tax issues clearly and thoroughly, so clients truly understand the situation and can make better decisions.
• The team has strong expertise in tax, audit, and compliance.
• Regulated businesses rely on AudTax for accurate reporting and dependable support.

Here, you get the best of both worlds: professionals who are approachable, and a combination of speedy service with real technical expertise. That’s why companies seeking practical assistance and genuine tax insight continue to return.

Ideal For

AudTax works well for:

• SMEs
• Regulated or audit-heavy businesses
• Companies that need specialist tax advice
• Firms that want fast replies and a more hands-on accountant
• Businesses looking for reliable audit preparation or compliance support

If your business requires more comprehensive tax guidance than what typical small-business accountants offer, AudTax fits that gap well.

At GoForma, we work hard to give contractors, freelancers, and small businesses a level of service that feels clear, friendly, and genuinely helpful. When we looked at the leading accounting firms in London, we didn’t just rely on the marketing, we went through real client reviews, assessed service quality, checked pricing, and reviewed each firm’s industry expertise. After comparing everything, it's obvious: GoForma stands out. Here’s why we claim to be #1 in our review.

1. Comprehensive Expertise Across All Key Areas - We handle every aspect of accounting. Self-assessment, IR35 advice, payroll, VAT, bookkeeping, company accounts, whatever you need, we take care of it. Our team speaks with contractors and small businesses daily, so we understand the challenges and keep our advice up to date. Clients don’t have to manage several firms or chase up answers. Everything’s under one roof, which just makes things easier.
2. Excellent Trustpilot Reviews - People talk about us on Trustpilot, and the feedback is really positive. Clients mention team members like Jordan and Jawad by name. They value quick responses, clear answers, and a friendly approach that actually solves problems. These reviews reflect the effort we put into giving every client a smooth experience from the very first call.
3. Proactive Tax Advice That Actually Saves Money - We don’t just file accounts. We look ahead and find real tax-saving options. Our clients understand how their business works, and they feel confident about making decisions. Most of them have stayed with us for years because they know we always have their best interests in mind.
4. Easy-to-Use Technology That Supports Real Conversations - Our online portal keeps things simple: upload documents, track progress, and stay updated on what’s coming next. It takes a lot of the stress out of running your business. But we don’t hide behind software. Every client works with a dedicated accountant who actually understands their business, not just their file number.
5. Transparent, Fair Pricing With No Hidden Fees - We keep our pricing simple. One fixed monthly fee, no hidden charges. Clients appreciate knowing exactly what they’re paying, what’s included, and how to plan for it. Transparent, fair pricing is important especially for small businesses, and we make sure you always know what to expect.

Choosing the right accountant comes down to your business needs, your preferred way of working and the level of support you want throughout the year. London has plenty of options, so before you decide, get clear on your priorities. A bit of research upfront can save you money and stress down the line. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking a London accountant.

Start with your business type and goals

Consider the kind of work you do and how your business is structured. Freelancers usually want simple bookkeeping and help with self-assessment. If you are running a limited company, you’ll likely need payroll, VAT returns, year-end accounts - the full package. Contractors need someone who understands IR35, and landlords have unique property income rules to deal with. The main thing: your accountant’s experience should match your daily needs and your business goals.

Decide if you want a local or online accountant

Some people value sitting down in person with their accountant, especially if they want regular advice or a personal touch. Others prefer online firms because they save time, remove the need for travel and offer quick digital tools. Think about how much direct contact you want and what’s easiest for you.

Analyse the Communication Style

How your accountant communicates matters.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want a named accountant who knows your business well?
• Are you happy speaking to a team, or do you prefer one dedicated contact?
• Do you want face-to-face meetings, or are online calls and digital support enough?

Many business owners stick with a dedicated accountant for a personal, consistent experience. Others like the flexibility of a team. Choose what suits your style.

Consider Cost and Value

Accountancy firms charge in different ways:

• Fixed fees make budgeting easier and are popular with small businesses.
• Hourly rates work for one-off or specialised advice.
• Monthly retainers are useful if you need ongoing help.

Don’t just pick the cheapest option. Look at what’s included. Are you getting advice, bookkeeping tools, and support, or just the basics? Sometimes, a slightly higher fixed fee covers everything and saves you hassle.

Check what the support covers

Not every package includes the same services. Look closely at what each firm offers. Do they help with tax planning, year-end filings, payroll, VAT and bookkeeping? Do they give you access to accounting software? A great accountant takes care of the essentials and doesn’t leave you with extra work.

Read reviews and check their reputation

Look at independent reviews, client testimonials, and case studies. These show how the firm treats its clients, especially when things get complicated. If you see lots of good feedback, it’s usually a sign they deliver.

Consider the tech and tools they use

Modern accounting goes far beyond spreadsheets. Your London accountants should set you up with things like:

• a secure client portal
• cloud accounting software (like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent)
• easy digital document uploads
• regular financial reports
• real-time dashboards

These tools help your business run smoothly and make it easier to manage your finances. If technology is important to you, make sure to check this.

Choosing the right accountant in London can shape the way your business grows. With so many accounting firms in London, the best choice really depends on your specific needs and how you prefer to work. We looked at five top firms, and each offers something a bit different.

• GoForma is a standout for contractors, freelancers, and small businesses who want clear advice, reliable support, and great value.
• Crunch is ideal if you want to handle everything online and prefer a platform with a proven track record.
• If you appreciate being able to visit an office and have in-person conversations, TaxAssist Accountants is a solid option.
• Accounts & Legal is a smart pick for growing businesses that need more than just accounting and wider business advice as well.
• And if you need quick replies and strong tax knowledge, especially when it comes to audit and compliance, AudTax is hard to beat.

All five firms have their strengths, and each scored highly for service, client reviews, and user experience.

That said, GoForma really stands out for anyone looking for proactive, hands-on support from London accountants that’s genuinely dedicated to your success. With transparent pricing, contractor expertise, and friendly, practical advice, we’ve become a trusted choice for thousands of UK businesses.

Now that you know what each firm brings, narrow your options down to one or two that match your budget, preferences, and the kind of support you want.

Still unsure? Book a quick consultation. Talk with GoForma or any of the other firms on the list, ask the questions that matter to you, and see how they respond. Sometimes, a short conversation is all it takes to get a real sense of what working with them will be like.

FAQs on London Accountants

How much do accountants in London cost?

Accountant fees in London vary depending on services, business type, and the level of support. GoForma’s fixed-fee accounting packages start from £39 per month with no hidden costs and FreeAgent software included.

Can I switch accountants mid-year?

Yes, you can switch accountants to GoForma at any time. Your new accountant will handle the transfer and request the needed records on your behalf.

Do I need an accountant if I use Xero or QuickBooks?

Software helps with bookkeeping, but accountants give advice, check for tax savings, and handle filings so you stay compliant.

What services do accountants in London typically offer?

London accountants usually offer bookkeeping, tax returns, VAT, payroll, year-end accounts, company formation and business advice for freelancers, contractors and small businesses.

Can I use online accountants if I live outside London?

Yes, online accountants work with clients across the UK, offering remote support, digital tools and quick communication.

Are online/accounting software platforms safe and HMRC-compliant?

Reputable accounting software use strong security and meet HMRC requirements, making them safe for filings, bookkeeping and tax records.

What qualifications should I verify when choosing my accountant?

Check for recognised bodies like ACCA, ICAEW or AAT, along with experience in your business type or industry.